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MSC HISTORY

In the early days of our company story, MSC operated just one small cargo ship – the MV Patricia. Back then, ahead of the true birth of global ‘liner business’ and the move to cargo ships operating on fixed schedules, MSC would transport bulk cargoes on a pay-per-voyage basis.

It was the development of the Nigerian oil industry in the 1970’s, and the subsequent high demand for oil-well equipment from Europe, which naturally presented our newly founded company with an opportunity to begin its exciting journey of growth.

The first voyage took place between the United Kingdom and Lagos, and paved the way for MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company's expansion and love affair with the Africa continent.

In February 1971, MSC started its first ‘liner’ service between the Mediterranean and East Africa, with our latest flagship, the Rafaela.

Fully loaded with all kinds of cargo – from pasta to pipes – we set sail from Marseilles, destined for the shores of Dar es Salaam, Mombasa, Mogadishu, Djibouti, Aden, Jeddah and Muscat.

MSC has a long and proud history in Africa. We continue to evolve our story within the heart of its community, and look forward to being part of the continent’s future.